The Pairing

The Reasoning

Animal essences are a powerful part of the magic system of The Curse of Sangrook Manor. Although it’s a little late in the year for a Halloween cocktail, the use of chocolate syrup gives a nice bloody touch to a drink with predominant flavors of chocolate and cherries. If you want it to look a little less sinister, I’d advise using a rim of cocoa powder instead for a similar flavor profile with a classier look. 🙂

The Recipe

You will need:

Martini or wine glass

3 oz ruby or tawny port

1 oz brandy

Sparkling cherry juice

Chocolate syrup (I used Hershey syrup)

Measure and pour your brandy and port into the glass. Top up with sparkling cherry juice, to taste.

Using a teaspoon (or if you’re a huge nerd like me, a syringe) carefully drip chocolate syrup around the rim of the glass to resemble blood running down the edges. Be sparing with the syrup or it will run all the way down the stem, and that will make handling the glass less fun!